Expectancy for the Future

Recently, a client shared that she had already determined what her journal entry for Jan. 1, 2021 will be. “It will read… Thank God 2020 is in Hindsight,” she exclaimed! We shared a laugh and I complimented her; telling her how clever she was to turn that phrase like she did! 

After our web meeting, I reflected on the series of events that have surprised us all in this rather unpredictable year. Client engagement and daily business activities that I could not have imagined as 2020 started, have now been implemented and are now considered best practices. This year certainly has not played out as I expected. 

So under the cloud of uncertainty that 2020 has cast, I want to be motivated to keep on keeping on with expectancy instead of expectation for 2021. Expectancy keeps us alert and nimble of heart and mind in the face of the unknown, while running headlong into un-met expectations leaves us stymied. It is in this tiny difference where innovation is born. The world is slowly settling into a hybrid way of interacting in person and virtually. 

So allow me to suggest a way through this year into the next.

If you have not already done so, invent yourself—digitally. Develop an interesting and engaging website that communicates your vision to current and prospective clients. Learn how to share your voice through social media and conduct business using on-line services like e-signature. Learn how to deliver educational content effectively in a virtual environment. Dare to leverage off what is being established as the new and acceptable ways of doing business. Finally, if you don’t know where to begin in this process, hire someone who can help you get these innovations implemented. You may find that you are more productive and your clients are more engaged than ever. 

Embrace what is left of this year and look towards 2021 with great expectancy.

Toni Whaley is a financial planner with PlanMember. 

Opinions expressed are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of NTSA or its members.

Representative is registered with and offer only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor and member FINRA/SIPC. Paladin Advisor Group and PlanMember Securities Corporation, and NTSA are independently owned and operated. PlanMember is not responsible or liable for ancillary products or services offered by Paladin Advisor Group, NTSA, or this representative.”